Manta Ray - Giant Manta (Manta Birostris)

Manta Ray is the largest of the Rays, has a very broad mouth, on either side of which are prominent fleshy extensions called cephalic lobes. It grows up till 7m. The surface of the body is rough to touch. They are black or blue above and white below. Mantas live in near-shore waters, near coral and rocky reefs. Sometimes can be found over deep water up to 120m. They live alone or in a small groups.

Mantas are mainly plankton feeders, but may feed on small and moderate-sized fishes as well. They leaps out the water mainly in spring and autumn, possibly as part of mating behavior.